Crafting the Perfect Mediterranean Sauce - A Quick and Easy Base for Any Dish
A flavorful sauce is key to Mediterranean cuisine. With fresh herbs, spices, olive oil and tomato, you can whip up a versatile Mediterranean sauce in minutes to use in everything from pastas and pizzas to chicken and fish. Master this basic recipe and add your own spin.
Mediterranean Sauce Ingredients
This simple sauce foundation includes:
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Tomato product - paste, crushed, diced, sauce
- Vegetable or chicken broth
- Red wine vinegar
- Tomato paste
- Fresh herbs - oregano, basil, parsley
- Spices - fennel, crushed red pepper
- Salt and pepper
Selecting the Best Olive Oil
Olive oil is essential for Mediterranean cooking. For a basic sauce, choose:
- Extra virgin olive oil - Highest quality, perfect for dressings and drizzling.
- Regular olive oil - All purpose for sauting aromatics and cooking.
- Light tasting olive oil - If you don't want a strong olive flavor.
Choosing Tomatoes
Use canned or fresh tomatoes. Canned is more convenient:
- Crushed tomatoes - Thick, lightly processed texture.
- Diced tomatoes - Firm chunks, add texture.
- Tomato sauce - Smooth puree, great for pasta.
- Tomato paste - Concentrated flavor, thickens sauce.
Picking Mediterranean Herbs
Fresh or dried herbs brighten up any Mediterranean sauce. Good options:
- Oregano - Robust flavor pairs well with tomatoes.
- Basil - Fresh basil makes sauce taste summery.
- Parsley - Bright, versatile flavor.
- Thyme - Earthy notes and aroma.
- Rosemary - Piney flavor, use sparingly.
- Marjoram - Sweet herb similar to oregano.
Spicing Up Your Sauce
A touch of warmth balances the Mediterranean sauce. Add:
- Crushed red pepper - A little goes a long way.
- Fennel seed - Licorice-like sweetness.
- Cumin - Smoky and earthy.
- Peppercorn - For subtle heat.
Putting It All Together
This easy formula results in a versatile Mediterranean sauce:
- Heat olive oil in pan over medium high heat.
- Saute chopped onions until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Pour in broth and tomato product of choice.
- Season with herbs, spices, salt and pepper.
- Simmer 20-30 minutes to develop flavors.
- Finish with a splash of red wine vinegar.
Customizing Your Mediterranean Sauce
Tailor the sauce to your recipe. Consider additions like:
- Mushrooms - Meaty texture.
- Eggplant - Chunks add heartiness.
- Zucchini - Brightness and color.
- Spinach - Mix in at the end for freshness.
- Artichoke hearts - Distinctive Mediterranean flavor.
- Kalamata olives - Salty, briny bite.
- Anchovies - Umami flavor when minced.
- Capers - Sharp contrast to tomatoes.
Meat Adds Hearty Flavor
For a meaty Mediterranean sauce, brown ground meat before simmering:
- Ground turkey or lamb - Lean options.
- Hot or sweet sausage - Choose chicken, turkey or pork.
- Pancetta or bacon - For smoky undertones.
Making it Vegan
This sauce can easily be made vegan. Simply:
- Use vegetable broth.
- Skip anchovies.
- Add lentils or chickpeas for protein.
- Use olive oil instead of pancetta.
Serving Mediterranean Sauce
This versatile base sauce enhances any dish:
- Toss with pasta - penne, rotelle, farfalle.
- Spoon over chicken or fish.
- Layer in lasagnas or moussakas.
- Ladle onto grain bowls.
- Spread on pita or pizza.
- Dip bread for an appetizer.
Storing and Freezing
Let sauce cool completely before storing. Keep in airtight container in fridge 3-4 days. Or freeze in bags or containers up to 3 months.
The Simple Mediterranean Sauce - Endless Possibilities
Mediterranean cuisine relies on simple yet flavorful sauces. With practice, you can whip up this easy olive oil based sauce in minutes. Adjust herbs, tomatoes and extras to match any dish. Use immediately or store for later - your Mediterranean kitchen starts here.
FAQs
What are the basic ingredients in Mediterranean sauce?
The base includes olive oil, onions, garlic, tomatoes, broth, vinegar, herbs like oregano and basil, and spices like crushed red pepper.
What type of olive oil is best for Mediterranean cooking?
Extra virgin has the boldest flavor for dressings while regular olive oil is ideal for sautéing and cooking.
What tomatoes work best for Mediterranean sauce?
Crushed, diced, sauce, or paste give the right consistency. Canned tomatoes are very convenient.
What herbs are commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine?
Oregano, basil, parsley, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram are frequently used to add fresh flavor.
How long does Mediterranean sauce keep in the fridge or freezer?
Store cooled sauce in a sealed container for 3-4 days in the fridge. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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